What is the purpose of decommissioning a radiological facility and what are typical steps?

• A. To expand operations; source management and upgrades
• B. To remove sources and return site to normal use; steps include source removal, decontamination, surveys, waste disposal, regulatory clearance
• C. To store equipment indefinitely
• D. To convert the site into a museum

Answer: (B)

Decommissioning a radiological facility is about safely ending its licensed operations and returning the site to normal use. The goal is to remove or render harmless radioactive sources and contamination so the remaining activity meets the release criteria, allowing unrestricted or appropriate licensed use of the site.

Typical steps include removing all radioactive sources (including sealed sources) and equipment containing contamination, decontaminating surfaces and systems, and conducting thorough radiation surveys to verify contamination levels. Then comes proper waste handling: packaging, characterizing, and disposing of radioactive waste according to regulatory requirements. Finally, regulatory clearance is sought to terminate the license or release the site for its intended use. Throughout, an organized plan guides activities, exposure is kept as low as reasonably achievable, and a final status survey confirms the site meets release criteria.